There is more than one way to approach journaling. In fact, there are dozens of types of journals that you might work on. Here are a few examples.
- Stream of consciousness journaling: This approach has no identifiable goal, such as to relieve stress or to retain academic information better. Instead, you’ll simply put pen to paper and write whatever comes to your mind. Think of it as a “brain dump.”
- Bullet journaling: If you want to use journaling to organize your thoughts and life activities, bullet journaling could be the right choice for you. As the name suggests, you can ditch complete sentences and just stick with bullet points. Use bullet journaling to make lists about your goals, your progress toward those goals, daily activities and events.
- Gratitude journaling: If the mental health benefits of journaling are what appeals to you the most, try gratitude journaling. Write down what you’re thankful for each day, and try to think of different things each day. The things you’re grateful for can range from the significant (e.g. your family) to the relatively minor (e.g. having a good hair day).
- Double-entry journaling: If you find that you’re having trouble connecting to your innermost thoughts and feelings, but want to, try double-entry journaling. Write down a concept, problem, concern or even a phrase on the left-hand side of the page. On the right-hand side, write down your thoughts and feelings about it.
- Reflective journaling: This is often considered the “classic” approach to writing a journal. You’ll use your journal to reflect upon your life, emotions, deep thoughts, hopes and dreams, fears and worries. Reflective journaling can be highly therapeutic, and it can help you get to know yourself better and figure out what you want out of life.
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Retrieved from:
1 Mount Vernon, The Journal of Major George Washington in August 2022.
2 Anne Frank House, The Diary in August 2022.
3 Elle, The Power Of Journaling: Four Authors On Their Experience Of Meghan Markle's Favourite Writing Hobby in August 2022.
4 University of Rochester Medical Center, Journaling for Mental Health in August 2022.
5 American Psychological Association, A new reason for keeping a diary in August 2022.
6 Science Daily, Study shows stronger brain activity after writing on paper than on tablet or smartphone in August 2022.
7 Journal of Nursing Education, Reflective Journaling for Critical Thinking Development in Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Students in August 2022.
8 Cambridge University Press, Emotional and physical health benefits of expressive writing in August 2022.
Approved by the Manager of the Office of Student Care on Nov. 11, 2022.